Quick facts TL;DR · 3 bullets
✓ A minor can get a REAL ID - as a driver's license (if driving age) or a California ID card (any age, non-driver).
✓ Bring the child’s identity document, SSN and two residency documents; a child may use a residency document in a parent’s name with a tracing document such as a birth certificate.
✓ Minors only need a REAL ID if they'll fly domestically or enter federal facilities without another acceptable ID.
As a license Driving age (16+)
As an ID card Any age
Residency Parent’s document + tracing document
Children and teens can get a California REAL ID - on a driver’s license if they’re driving age, or on a California ID card at any age. The process mirrors an adult’s; for residency, a child may use a parent’s document with a tracing document such as a birth certificate.
Before you go, though: many families don’t need one. TSA doesn’t require ID for under-18s traveling with an adult, so a minor only needs a REAL ID if they’ll fly alone or enter a federal facility without another acceptable ID.
When a minor needs one
Get a minor a REAL ID if they will, without a passport or other federal ID:
- Fly domestically unaccompanied (or you want them to carry their own federal ID)
- Enter a federal building or facility that checks ID
Otherwise a standard California ID card or the family’s passports usually suffice. For the documents every applicant needs, see the REAL ID checklist.
Documents you'll need
1
What to bring for a minor's REAL ID
- The child's identity: certified birth certificate or US passport
- The child’s Social Security number - you provide the number; the card isn’t required (exceptions may apply)
- Two proofs of California residency
- If using a parent’s residency document: a tracing document showing the relationship, such as a birth certificate
Heads up.Under 18 can get a REAL ID on a California ID card without driving; teens of driving age get it on the license.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need a REAL ID?
Only to fly domestically or enter a federal facility without another acceptable ID (like a passport). TSA does not require ID for children under 18 traveling with an adult - so many families skip it.
Can a child get a REAL ID if they don't drive?
Yes - on a California ID card, available at any age. Same document rules.
What shows the relationship to the parent?
For residency, the DMV says “A child under the age of 18 (a “minor”) may use a residency document in their parents’ name by presenting a tracing document (such as a birth certificate) showing the relationship.” It also lists these forms: “Agency-Group Home Agreement (Form SOC 154)”, “Placement Agency – Foster Family Agency Agreement (Form SOC 154A)” and “Agency- Foster Parents Agreement (Form SOC 156)”.
Can my teen get a REAL ID with their first license?
Yes - REAL ID can be issued with a first license at a DMV office. See the first-license guide for the rest of the process.
Does the child need their own Social Security card?
You provide the child’s Social Security number; the card isn’t required (exceptions may apply). See the full document checklist.
About this guide
Published by
DMVCA· an independent California DMV information publisher
Fact-checking
Fact-checked against primary sources - the California Vehicle Code, DMV publications, and government sources - and cited on the page.
Sources. California DMV - REAL ID · TSA - Identification (children) · US TSA - REAL ID
Content last verified November 6, 2026.